8 Ways to Survive a Government Shutdown

Government shutdowns do not exist in other countries. Personnel that continue to receive a paycheck during a government shutdown are the President, Congress, the military, federal law enforcement agents, doctors, and nurses working in federal hospitals.

Americans have to change the way they think about money and how they spend it.  They must change their spending habits to minimize the impact of an unexpected emergency such as a government shutdown, medical condition, job layoff, or death of a loved one.  Here are 8 practical ways to survive a government shutdown.

FOOD

Ensure you have enough food for at least one week. Use all items in your panty and eat leftovers before going grocery shopping. Cook inexpensive meals such as soups, casseroles, or pasta dishes.

BILLS

Pay priority bills first such as mortgage/rent, utilities, cell phone, auto, and health insurance.

FREEBIES

Search your local newspaper or watch your local news for freebies in your area.

REDUCE EXPENSES

Determine areas where you can reduce spending by at least 30%. Only purchase necessities.

DON’T HIDE

Call your creditors right away to setup payment plans to prevent damage to your credit report.

EXTRA INCOME

Find ways to earn extra income.

CREATE A BUDGET

Create a budget to determine how much you earn, how much you owe, and how much you are spending.   Track your spending daily or weekly. Always spend less than you earn.

EMERGENCY FUND

Create an emergency savings account to pay your bills and monthly expenses for at least 6 – 12 months.